Tangled tresses might sound like a morning-after disaster, but twist those locks into a braid and you can snag one of the hottest trends from the runways and red carpets.

Red carpet regulars like Diane Kruger and Jessica Alba have been spotted with braids at both casual and formal events. Kruger elected to go messy with an over-the-shoulder braid with loose pieces while Jessica Alba paired statement earrings with an intricate crown of double braids. And for those of us who don’t walk in front of the flashbulbs, braids give any look a dose of bohemian chic. Nicole Richie, the look’s poster girl, is a repeat braider, with everything from fish tail braids to full crowns of plaits in her hair on Fashion Star and for her public appearances. It’s practically the official music festival look, too. Coachella had gaggles of girls twisting their hair into braids to keep the heat at bay and give themselves an easy look that takes little effort and makes a big statement.

Nicole Richie

Carlos Miele runway

On the runway, designers like Carlos Miele, Band of Outsiders and Alexander McQueen have given their models everything from simple braided ponytails to more elaborate braids.

With over 13 years of experience behind the stylist’s chair (an an appearance or two on The Real Housewives of New York alongside Bettheny Frankel), Francky L’Official proclaimed that braids were the perfect look for spring and summer. With the recent launch of his line, Hair Show on HSN, he’s given girls everything they need to smooth their locks and prep for the perfect plait. But even he knows that not everyone has the patience or skill to braid. He suggests logging on to YouTube for a free lesson. Lauren Conrad, an early adopter of braided hairstyles (she’s been wearing braids since her stint on The Hills and Laguna Beach), and her team at beauty-centric blog the Beauty Department have put together a tutorial that makes the elusive fishtail braid look quick and easy.

Getting your tresses in a tangle? We don’t blame you. The less dextrous and those who don’t want to DIY their braids can book braid services at New York’s famed John Barrett Salon and West Hollywood’s Nine Zero One. Barrett’s Braid Bar is a must-visit for editors and show-goers alike during New York Fashion Week, and services start at just $45. In L.A., Nine Zero One has a menu inspired by celeb styles. A casual-luxe worn by Jennifer Aniston, the NY Chic, and a double-braid milkfrau look sported by Drew Barrymore dubbed the Around the World are just a few options.